BCCC issues three advisories for non-news TV channels

The Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) has approved the issuance of advisories on three issues which benefits all member channels of India Broadcasting Foundation (IBF). The issues concern telecast of programmes on wildlife and animals, award functions, and participation of children in reality shows. These advisories were issued at BCCC’s 15th meeting held on July 13 2012.

 

Of late there are various shows on television depicting animals/wildlife. But instead of educating the viewers these shows create wrong impressions and create myths which impact the viewers. Another drawback observed is that great harm is done to animal and wildlife in course of filming and producing these shows. Hence BCCC has issued an advisory to channels not to air such programmes that denigrate but show respect for all forms of life. Also reality shows which involve actors and participants to eat insects, worms and other species of the eco-system are in bad taste which have been objected to. Henceforth special permissions are to be obtained before using animals and this holds good also for imported content and shoots at foreign locations as well.

 

The second advisory issued by the BCCC is with regard to complaints received from viewers who find the language used in film and television award functions objectionable. It has been observed that vulgar language and smutty puns are used by anchors to impress the audience.On the contrary it has hurt the sentiments of most viewers. Most of it is in bad taste and demeaning to women and some sections of the community. Inspite of being aired at later dates the objectionable content is not edited from the show which is a cause of concern.

 

The third and equally important advisory is in the interest of children. It is seen that the number of children participating in reality shows and serials have increased. To protect the interests of such children a decision was taken that all IBF member channels should strictly adhere and comply with “Guidelines to Regulate Child Participation in TV serials, advertisements and reality shows 2010-2011” . This has been issued by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

 

With the help BCCC’s involvement viewers are now able to judge and decide what programmes are suitable and proper for family viewing.